A Strictly professional has hit back at criticism after fans accused them of “letting down” their celebrity partner.
Maddie Ingoldsby, 21, who joined the show this year and partnered with Love Island winner Cach Mercer, has been criticised by the judges and fans for her choreography.
On Saturday night’s episode, the pair’s Cha-Cha to Beggin’ by Måneskin received mixed reviews from the judges, who scored the routine 24 points.
Cach Mercer and Maddie Ingoldsby’s cha-cha received mixed reviews
PA
Motsi Mabuse said there was a lack of technical steps in the dance, and told Cach: “It would have been a disaster but was saved by your talent.”
Some ruffled fans took to social media to criticise Ingoldsby’s choreography skills, with one claiming that the professional dancer is “letting Cach down”.
“She’s clearly a brilliant dancer but how is she still risking getting this same feedback week after week?,” said one user on Reddit.
“At what point can the judges not just call Maddie out directly because we know he’s not choreographing the content.”
Another viewer wrote on X: “I don’t mean any disrespect to Maddie like she’s very clearly talented but I just think she’s too young/inexperienced for this.
“She’s yet to choreograph something that has worked for Cach except the couples choice which was an exception.”
However, some fans rushed to the 21-year-old’s defence. “I am so sick of Maddie catching strays from the judges. It’s her first season and she’s 21 years old - she’s doing a BRILLIANT job,” wrote one user.
This season is Maddie Ingoldsby’s first as a professional dancer
CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston/BBC Creative
“I feel like she’s choreographing too much for TV and not for the judges/technique if that makes sense? An easy mistake to fall into strictly though! She just needs a year benched or extra coaching to help her,” said another.
Appearing to reference the discourse, Ingoldsby lip-synced to a viral sound which features a voice asking “Angel what do you do?”, with another voice answering: “My best.”
In the comments, fans issued words of support, telling her to “keep going”.
“Girl you are the new generation of Strictly. Keep your head up,” said one, whilst another said: “Your best is more than good enough!”